What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cycle
Example
The water cycle is the continuous movement of water from the earth's surface to the atmosphere and back again. [cycle: noun]
Example
The stock market goes through cycles of growth and decline. [cycles: plural noun]
period
Example
The Renaissance period was a time of great artistic and cultural achievement. [period: noun]
Example
She experienced a period of sadness after her dog passed away. [period: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Period is more commonly used than cycle in everyday language. Period is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while cycle is more commonly used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cycle and period?
Both cycle and period can be used in formal or informal contexts, but cycle is more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while period is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
